Illustration of fishing equipment for a Cabo charter.
Bring less than you would take to the beach, but do not underestimate sun, spray and motion on a Cabo fishing charter. A small soft bag with protection, medication and dry essentials is usually more useful than a large hard-sided case.
The essential packing list
- Photo identification and the booking confirmation
- Cash or the operator’s accepted payment method for balances, fees and gratuity
- Reef-conscious sunscreen and SPF lip protection
- Polarised sunglasses with a retaining strap
- A brimmed hat that will stay secure in wind
- A light long-sleeved shirt or sun hoodie
- A light wind layer for an early departure
- Any personal medication in its original packaging
- Motion-sickness treatment chosen with medical advice when needed
- A small dry pouch for phone, wallet and documents
Wear non-slip, non-marking shoes. Bare feet and flip-flops can be unsafe around wet decks, hooks and moving equipment. Lightweight quick-drying clothing is usually more comfortable than denim. Even warm Cabo mornings can feel cool while the boat is moving.
Food, drinks and fishing equipment
Do not buy bait or tackle until you know what the charter supplies. Many Cabo charters include rods, reels and basic tackle, while policies for live bait, licences, food and drinks vary. Ask for an itemised inclusion list. If you have dietary needs, confirm whether outside food is permitted and how it should be packed.
Bring water even when drinks are advertised, unless the operator clearly confirms sufficient drinking water. Avoid glass containers. A reusable bottle and simple sealed snacks are easier to manage than a large picnic.
What to leave behind
- Large hard coolers unless the operator requests one
- Valuable jewellery and unnecessary electronics
- Loose towels or hats that can blow overboard
- Bananas if the crew observes the traditional fishing superstition
- Your own hooks or knives unless the captain approves them
- Any substance prohibited by the operator or local law
Prepare before the morning
Confirm the marina, dock, meeting time and parking or transfer instructions the evening before. Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Los Cabos and other departure points are not interchangeable. Check whether the quoted departure is the meeting time or the time the boat leaves.
Pair this checklist with Where Cabo Fishing Charters Depart and Is a Full Day of Fishing in Cabo Worth the Extra Cost?. Your captain’s instructions take priority because storage, footwear and food rules vary by boat.
Keep your documents with the booking confirmation. Our Cabo charter fishing licence guide explains individual permits and the checks to make when licences are advertised as included.
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